Bessie Lee, age 82, was born on May 6, 1944, in Gonzales, Texas, to the late Reverend Clyde Clark Sr. and Lena (Hicks) Clark. She passed away on October 28, 2026, at University Medical Center, surrounded by family and loved ones.

Bessie grew up in Gonzales and attended school in Shiner, Yoakum, and Stevens Mayo High School in Hallettsville. Each summer, her family traveled to West Texas to “pull cotton.” One summer she met her lifelong love, Melvin Lee, and decided not to return home. She married Melvin on January 21, 1963.

Melvin and Bessie were deeply rooted in the community of Post, Texas, with a life defined by love, family, hard work, and service. Bessie was a gifted homemaker, and poured her heart into creating a warm and welcoming space for everyone who entered her home. Her kindness extended beyond her home, as she was always ready to lend a helping hand or share a prayer and words of comfort. While Melvin farmed, Bessie dedicated her time and love to supporting and participating in their children’s school events, community activities, “Bold Gold” sporting events, church service, and her personal spiritual ministry through song and music.

She was an active member at First Church of God in Christ in Slaton, Texas. She had a long history as a gospel singer and sang with 15th Street Players, Wayside Travelers, Gospel Highlights, and Golden Voices.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Deacon Melvin Lee; her eldest son, James Arthur Lee; 2 grandsons, Sascha Andres Lee and Brandon James Lee; her son-in-law David D. Hastings; two brothers, Clyde Clark, Jr., and J. F. Clark; and 2 sisters, Dorothy Ree Clark Flowers and Rozella Clark Greathouse.

She is survived by 3 sons, Dennis (Melanie) Lee of Lubbock, Marvin (Stacie) Lee of Andrews, and Lannie (Consuelo) Lee of Slaton; one daughter, Sharon Hastings of Slaton; two sisters, Mrs. Mirdie Manor of Austin, and Mrs. Leona Anthony of San Antonio; 19 grandchildren, 42 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren. And numerous other extended family and friends.

Visitation will be Wednesday, November 4, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Hudman Funeral Home in Post, Texas.

The Celebration of Life Service will be Thursday, November 5, 2026, at 11:00 AM at the First Baptist Church of Post, with Pastor Michael Session of Slaton officiating.

Interment will follow at Terrace Cemetery, in Post, Texas, under the direction of Hudman Funeral Home.

Repast will be held at the Post Community Center, 129 W Main Street, Post, Texas.